Promoting economic prosperity, environmental co-operation can contribute to stability, OSCE official says

YEREVAN, 20 September 2006 - Bernard Snoy, the Co-ordinator for OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, today applauded Armenia's efforts to improve the investment and business climate for foreign and domestic investors, saying such activities contribute to stability by fostering prosperity.

"OSCE's involvement in economic and environmental activities stems from the fact that promoting economic prosperity and co-operation on environmental problems can enhance international security and stability," Mr. Snoy told 1,200 participants of the Armenia-Diaspora 2nd Economic Forum.

"I commend Armenian efforts in tackling rural poverty eradication problems, and I believe the establishment of an OSCE presence in the Syunik province, focusing on economic and environmental activities, will contribute to these endeavors.

"Supporting private entrepreneurship,among other ways through the establishment of a business incubator, and attracting foreign and domestic investment help generate employment and raise living standards."

The forum was organized by the Armenian Ministry of Trade and Economic Development with support from the OSCE Office in Yerevan. The Office is also organizing a two-day visit to the region of Syunik for interested investors and business representatives from 22 to 24 September to explore business opportunities in the region.

As part of the forum, two publications were presented to the audience: the Armenian version of the "Best Practice Guide for a Positive Business and Investment Climate," developed by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities and the "SME Statistical Reference Book 2004-2005 for Armenia," prepared with support from the OSCE Office.

"These publications will be a useful tool for policy makers and practitioners in improving the investment and business climate in Armenia," Mr. Snoy said.

Mr. Snoy also visited Tavush province where he attended the opening of a local Public Environmental Information (Aarhus) Centre in Dilijian.

During his visit Mr. Snoy also met with Foreign Minister Vardan Oskanyan and with the ministers for nature protection, trade and economic development as well as transport and communication.